A county Armagh community has been plunged into grief following the sad passing of an “inspirational” woman.
Breda McAtavey passed away peacefully at home in Keady following a brave battle with cancer.
Breda was well-known for her fundraising exploits and was the driving force behind the town’s world-record ‘Rock the Boat’ in 2013.
A leading light in community relations, Breda’s fundraising efforts were legendary, pulling together hundreds of people for her concert and fun day in Crossmore Green in 2012 – an event which ran from morning until night.
It was then she decided to go one bigger with the ‘Rock the Boat’ fundraiser where thousands lined the Main Street in Keady, smashing the previous record.
Her efforts were all in aid of Cancer Research, a charity close to her heart.
Breda lost her father Bill to cancer 22 years ago, before losing her sister Lisa six years ago. Today, her family, friends and wider community mourn her untimely passing.
Keady Camogie Club paid an emotional tribute to a member who was truly loved.
“This lady was an inspiration in this town. She touched the lives of many people, her fundraising skills for Cancer NI were exceptional.
“She put Keady on the map for Rock the Boat. She took many of us to the top of Croagh Patrick, that certainly was a major achievement as we came in all shapes and sizes and age did not matter.
“There were many more fundraisers all to raise money to stop this cruel disease.
“She took part in our ole crocks match, (Thelma and Louise) and was the favourite by far for our two managers Eileen and Colleen.
“She supported her three girls at Camogie; Amy, Eve and Mia, even though she said it was too rough. She was ‘a lover not a hater’. That she truly was, she loved life, loved people, loved her friends and most of all loved her beautiful family.
“We send our sincere condolences to Ryan, Amy, Eve and Mia and the McNally and McAtavey family.
“R.I.P Breda, our loss is heaven’s gain xxxx.”
The Michael Dwyers GAA club said it was a sad day for the entire town.
“(She was) well known for her exploits throughout the town and especially her numerous fundraising events for Cancer Research over the past number of years.
“We were privileged that she was a member of our Gaelic 4 Mothers and others teams that played challenge games against Saval and that went on a road trip to Dublin in 2013.
“She was the heart and soul of that team and will be sadly missed.
“We send our heartfelt sympathy to the entire McNally/McAtavey family circle and to her large circle of friends.”
Breda was a loving mother to Ryan, Amy, Eve and Mia, beloved daughter of Breda and late Bill RIP and sister of the late Lisa RIP.
Deeply regretted by her loving son, daughters, mother, husband, sisters Julie and Anna brothers Pat, Joe, Martin, Liam, Michael, John and Mark, nephews, nieces and the entire family circle.
Her remains will leave her late residence, Rathmoyle Park on Sunday to arrive at St Patrick’s Church for 2:30pm funeral mass.
Burial will be afterwards in adjoining cemetery
Family flowers only please, donations in lieu to Cancer Research and Marie Curie c/o any family member or Mones Funeral Directors, 22a Lower Clea Rd, Keady, Co Armagh BT60 3HR (02837531236/07849293472).
